Smart recognition apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

A qualifying connection for an instrument attaches to a source of electrosurgery energy to and the instrument and has first and second parts coupled to the instrument and the source, respectively. Optical couplings on the connection transmit invisible energy to identify the instrument and are proximate on the first and second parts. A light modifier on the first part is proximal to the second part for modification of radiation in the infrared wavelengths so infrared transmitters encode signals and non contact coded proximity detectors on the second part are the coupled detectors. Non contact coded proximity detectors respond to modified infrared light establishing an Nth bit identification code. An infrared light supply in the source pass from the transmitters across the communicating couplings for encoding signals by modification of the infrared light with a light modifier. Mechanical attachments include conjugating male and female portions physically extending between the parts for mating engagement. The attachments juxtaposition the parts when the attachments geometrically conjugate to geographically positioning the couplings proximate for communicating. The attachments have one or more conductors for delivery of high frequency energy from the source to the instrument. A cable fits between the first part of the connection and the instrument and has electrical conductors for carrying energy passing through the first part of the connection from the source to the instrument. An identifying circuit couples to the second part and responds to invisible light optically communicated across the couplings for verifying the type of instrument connected by the cable to the source.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This relates to a smart recognition system for electrosurgery and aqualifying connection with non contact, coded proximity detection, usingdiffuse surface, infrared reflective coupling as an instrumentidentification process. More particularly, the system identifies,qualifies or verifies the correct connection between a source of highfrequency energy and an instrument.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Electrosurgery requires controlled application, with an instrument, ofradio frequency energy to an operative tissue site. To achievesuccessful clinical results during surgery, the electrosurgicalgenerator, as the source of the high frequency or radio frequencyenergy, should be mated correctly with an appropriate instrument for aspecific surgery. Due to the variety of operative electrosurgicalprocedures requiring various levels of radio frequency energy deliveryfrom an attached instrument, problems arise with mismatching anelectrosurgical generator and the instrument. The operating rooms with avariety of instruments and generators available for surgery create apotential for mismatch problems and thus may increase the patient risk.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,267 discloses a system with a non volatile memorywith an EEPROM in the instrument or its attached cable. The memoryidentifies the instrument. A problem arises when the memory is locatedexternal to the power supply requiring hardwire connections. Thecommunicated data transmission from the memory to the control may havean error due to radiated emissions from radio frequency energy wireslocated closely when delivered by the electrosurgical generator duringsurgery. Radio frequency exposure will interfere with the identificationinformation being transmitted so it becomes difficult to determine thatthe correct medical instrument is attached to the power source. Inaddition a further problem is presented because the memory means must belocated in the reusable part of the medical instrument. For purposes ofinstrument identification, this patent restricts application to reusablemedical instruments and prohibits an instrument identification for lowcost disposables.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,413,573 describes identification of surgical instrumentsby incorporating a unique interface between two components such thattheir engagement by two surfaces defines the identity of an instrumentif properly mated. In this system, a switch is provided on a componentfirst surface called the orientation means. A second surfaceincorporates a contact on an intermediate component. Upon engagement ofthese two components the appropriate switch and contact mating establishthe given identity. A problem arises with this approach, as theintegrity of the identity depends on the engagement with the mating ofcomponents. A degradation of this identification occurs, with repeatedengagements causing deterioration of the mating switch to contactinterface between components. A secondary problem also occurs from themultiple engagement process as this approach requires a specificorientation alignment between mating surfaces. As the numbers of switchto contact interfaces increase, a tighter tolerance must be maintainedbetween mating surfaces to retrieve the identity information. Repeatedcomponent engagements will also deteriorate this orientation alignmentand thus degrade the accuracy in maintaining the identity.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,434,398 uses a magnetic encoding process to establishthe identity with a card based system. Modulated magnetic fieldsembedded in a smart card require the use of a ferromagnetic element toretain the unique identity code. A magnetic reader decodes the cardinformation allowing system activation. Exposure of this system to radiofrequency energy used in electrosurgery, could effect the integrity ofthe magnetic smart card and degrade the ability of the magnetic basedcard reader to accurately decode its proper identity. Radio frequencyenergy would remagnetize both the smart card and reader by inducedmagnetic coupling to the ferromagnetic elements. Clearly this systemwould require magnetic shielding to retain identity data. Indeterminatemagnetic sources present in the operating room also creates additionalmajor problems for this system and would make its use in electrosurgerysuspect.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,396,062 describes a power source receptacle system withdetection of the presence of a mated plug, by using an optical couplingtechnique, established by beam passage through the receptacle. Thisapproach uses a light emitter to generate a beam, that passes throughopenings in the receptacle contacts, to a receiver aligned on adedicated optical axis. A powered instrument having a bladed plug forinsertion in a receptacle breaks the beam transmission path sending acorresponding signal to a controller that detects the plug engagement.The '062 patent is limited in use, in that, it provides for detectionwhen a mating plug is either inserted or removed from the receptacle.Power can only be activated or deactivated in the receptacle, based onwhether the mating plug is engaged or disengaged. Numerous problems arepresented by this system. First, the identity is not recognized orassociated to a given instrument plugged into the receptacle. Second,the power applied to the receptacle cannot be differentiated betweenspecific pluggable instruments. Also, additional problems are presented,because a specific optical axial alignment is required for beam passage,through the openings in the power receptacle contacts, thereby requiringa specific mechanical alignment integrity. U.S. Pat. No. 5,625,370 hasan electromagnetic device and method in an identification systemapparatus. An electrically conductive material is disposed to passthrough a magnetic flux loop of the electromagnetic device. The couplingestablished between those components is the means by whichidentification information is transferred. An antenna may also beelectrically connected to the conductive material to augment theapparatus for receiving transmitted identification information. Multipleidentification problems exist with radio frequency based equipment dueto radiation coupling with the electromagnetic conductive strip andantenna which will deteriorate the identity signals. Error borne signalslose their identity and become inaccurate with decoding. The radiofrequency energy may also electromagnetically couple to distort themagnetic flux loop of the electromagnetic device. This will reduce thesignal to noise ratio during information transfer and lower the accuracyof the identity information recovered.

International Patent WO9608794 has a security code identificationcircuit that uses a radio frequency based card reader and decoder methodto recover a digital security code. The card reader includes a receivingantenna sensitive to a signal generated to an access card. A receivercircuit is coupled to the receiving antenna to detect and process ananalog signal that is then converted to a digital security code. Aproblem with this type of recognition system makes it error borne andunacceptable for code identification in radio frequency systems. Radiofrequency energy contains components that will be picked up and coupledby the reader receiving antenna as it is sensitive to those frequencies.This will confuse the card reader antenna and detector electronics.Erroneous signal components will be processed along with theidentification signal; thus, generating errors in the detected signal.The recognition system digital security code could not be a truerepresentation of the signal information and thus identification isinaccurate for use with radio frequency based equipment.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,660,567 has a smart connector for a sensor withremovable encoding medical device. The smart identification method isaccomplished within the connector module pin interconnect wherein adedicated group of removable pins from a multiple pin connector are usedto attach an encoding device read by the sourcing equipment. The sensor,attached to this connector with encoding device, identifies the medicaldevice. The smart connector distinguishes either a resistor, anelectronic device, a memory device or a modulating device to identifythe medical device. Insertion and removal of an encoder requiresassembly, thereby making the accuracy and repeatability of theidentification process suspect and prone to error. Recovery of the smartsignal interface is dependent on the reliability of the electrical andmechanical connections required as mechanical misregistration andintermittent electrical contacts will degrade accuracy. In applicationswhere radio frequency energy exists proximate to the encoding, thecorruption of electronic signals used for identity recognition willresult. Radio frequency energy will radiate and conductively couple withelectronic or memory devices to reduce the accuracy of decoded signals.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,780 has an identification and monitoring method forrecognizing the physical and or functional characteristics of medicaldevices. Identification means located within the medical instrument usesan electronic memory such as a non-volatile AM ROM, EEPROM or EPROM.Information is stored about the medical device attributes look-up tableswithin a power source include an acceptable device list or performancecharacteristic to compare to the attached instrument to determineapplication use. The identification teachings of this patent are similarto the one identified in U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,267. The problems with '780are similar to those mentioned for the '267 patent.

A solution to the above problems is disclosed and claimed herein and itaddresses the noted limitations of the patents discussed. A smartrecognition system for electrosurgery includes a smart connector sensingtopology. In addition to uniquely recognizing the correct mating ofelectrosurgical power sources with the attached pluggable medicalinstruments the smart connector sensing approach herein provides asolution that has inherent immunity to the problems discussed. Thepresent system has the smart identification code integral to theconnector assembly to avoid assembly errors. Use of a non-contact,optical method smart signal recovery eliminates electrical contactdegradation and mechanical misalignment problems. An infrared diffusereflectance code identification recovery method which has inherentaccuracy and reliability in harsh, high power radio frequencyelectrosurgical environments and application in fields outsideelectrosurgery.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiment of the smart connector sensing approach has anon-contact, coded proximity detector that uses a diffuse surface,infrared reflective coupling. Delineation of this smart sense topologyyields benefits providing the immunity referenced as an intrinsicproperty of the means used. A non contact technique avoids problemsassociated with mechanical alignment, component engagement and partmating orientation. Physical contact for sensing between matingcomponents is not required for identity recognition. Coded proximitydetection provides a unique identity association between plugged medicalinstruments and Rf energy sources. Multiple integrated optical paths,each containing both emitting and receiving components, proximallydetect a unique Nth bit code identification for each medical instrument,plugged into an Rf energy source. Identification problems, associatedwith memory communication and data storage and registration and fatigueproblems caused by component engagement alignment problems of multiplesensors for code identity, are avoided.

A light coupled, non-magnetic approach, avoids instrument identityproblems with electromagnetic (EMI) interference. Light coupled identitysensing is immune to this noise. A light coupled technique, also avoidsproblems caused by electrical discontinuity, due to a mechanicaldisconnection of wire contacts between hardwire connections, orswitches. A diffuse surface reflective coupling, avoids problemsassociated with optical axial alignment and focused optics. Unfocusedoptical components are preferred to proximally detect pluggedinstruments with diffuse surface reflection. Optimal smart senserecognition is obtained from non-planer, diffuse surface, includingmedical instrument plugs located within a proximal range from the smartsense components. As a result, tight optical and mechanical registrationtolerances, along with high polished optical surfaces are not requiredto maximize instrument recognition and signal recovery.

Infrared reflective coupling is preferred as it provides high accuracysensing and signal recovery for smart recognition, medical instrumentdetection. Unlike the visible light sensors, that encompass a broadspectrum of light wavelengths, infrared light exists at a narrow bandwidth wavelength. This provides a high accuracy, sensory signalrecognition apparatus and method. Infrared offers a high discriminatingsignal to noise ratio between the smart sense light source and theambient background light of the operating room. A smart connectorsensing approach has maximum flexibility for medical instruments.Disposable and reusable medical instruments, may be uniquely identifiedand attached to an electrosurgical Rf generator source, for clinicaluse. A smart recognition system for electrosurgery is herein presented.The benefits described are unique medical applications forelectrosurgery. In addition, the approaches for applications outsideelectrosurgery are possible as example: lasers, microwaves, ultrasonicsand fluid based energy delivered systems.

The smart recognition system for electrosurgery provides an accuratemedical instrument identification, for instruments attached to anelectrosurgical generator source of high frequency electrosurgicalenergy. A control of the application of Rf energy during surgicalprocedures is also disclosed. Specific Rf power levels developed in theelectrosurgical generator may be uniquely activated and coupled toindividually recognized medical instruments for performingelectrosurgery. Activation and surgical use of the Rf energy source areonly allowed with an appropriate validation from the smart recognitionsystem.

This occurs when the proper medical instrument has been attached to theelectrosurgical generator. Using this approach to control the powersource for a particular tissue and to achieve the desired clinicaleffect prevents misapplication of Rf energy to the patient. As a result,the risk of patient injury is minimized and safety increased.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the smart recognition system with asource of medical treatment, a qualifying connection and attachedinstrument.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the connector of FIG. 1 enlarged and in crosssection for showing the relative relationships of the optical couplingsand the mechanical attachments of first and second parts of thequalifying connection.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF IRE INVENTION

A qualifying connection 10 is disposed between an instrument 11 and asource of medical 12 treatment for passage of treatment energy from thesource of medical treatment 12 through the qualifying connection 10 tothe instrument 11 and to a patient. The qualifying connection 10selectively permits passage of information from the instrument 11 to thesource of medical treatment 12 in FIGS. 1 and 2. The qualifyingconnection 10 includes the instrument 11 having a distal end 13 fortreatment of the patient and a proximal end 14 for manipulation by asurgeon. The instrument 11 is connected to the qualifying connection 10.The source of medical treatment 12 provides energy delivery to theinstrument 11. The source of medical treatment 12 is attached to thequalifying connection 10. A first part 15 of the qualifying connection10 connects to the instrument 11 in FIG. 2. A second part 16 of thequalifying connection 10 is carried on and connected to the source ofmedical treatment 12. Optical couplings 17 and 18 on the qualifyingconnection 10 extend between the first and second parts 15 and 16respectively to pass optical energy thus communicating information inthe form of the identity of the instrument 11 to the source of medicaltreatment 12.

A light supply 19 is in the source of medical treatment 12 is part ofthe qualifying connection 10 for transmitting across the communicatingoptical couplings 17 and 18 shown in FIG. 2. The light supply 19operates within a predetermined wavelength. Mechanical attachments 20and 21 across the qualifying connection 10 juxtaposition the first andsecond parts 15 and 16 thereof. The mechanical attachments 20 and 21have geometric mechanical conjugations for delivering medical treatmentthrough the qualifying connection 10 from the source of medicaltreatment 12 to the instrument 11. The mechanical attachments 20 and 21position geographically the optical couplings 17 and 18 in proximity tocommunicate between the first part 15 on the instrument 11 and thesecond part 16 on the source of medical treatment 12 when the mechanicalattachments 20 and 21 conjugate so the optical couplings 17 and 18 maycommunicate the information as an indication of the identity of theinstrument 11 connected to the source of medical treatment 12.

An identifying circuit 22, a circuit board in the source of medicaltreatment 12 and on the second part 16 responds to the information asthe indication of light optically communicated through the opticalcouplings 17 and 18 thereby differentiating the type of instrument 11connected by the mechanical attachments 20 and 21 through the qualifyingconnection 10 to the source of medical treatment 12. The identifyingcircuit 22 in FIG. 2 signals verification to the source of medicaltreatment 12. A switch 23, preferrably a comparator integrated circuit,is connected to the identifying circuit 22 in the source of medicaltreatment 12. The switch 23 responds to the signaling of the identifyingcircuit 22. The switch further connects within the source of medicaltreatment 12 for enabling the passage of medical treatment 12 from thesource of medical treatment 12 through at least one of the mechanicalattachments 20 or 21 and to the instrument 11.

Conjugating male and female portions may be one form of the mechanicalattachment 20 and 21 as shown in FIG. 2. The male and female portionsphysically extend between the first and second parts 15 and 16 acrossthe qualifying connection 10 for mating engagement. The opticalcouplings 17 and 18 positioned on the first and second parts 15 and 16are preferrably aligned in proximate relation for communicationtherebetween upon the mating engagement of the mechanical attachments.The optical coupling 17 on the first part 15 includes a light modifier24. The light modifier 24 includes either a diffuse surface in the formof a coating, a matrix of holes or another preselected light responsivematerial to modify the wavelength of radiation affected by the lightmodifier 24 for thereafter receipt by the optical coupling 18 on thesecond part 16 for signaling the source of medical treatment 12, seeFIG. 2.

The mechanical attachments 20 and 21 include one or more male portionson the first part 15 for conjugation. The mechanical attachments 20 and21 include one or more female portions on the second part 16 forconjugation. Of course the male and female portions could be reversed oralternated. The first part 15 of the optical couplings 17 and 18includes the light modifier 24 indicative of the type of instrument 11connected to the first part 15. Infrared transmitters as a preferredlight supply 19 are positioned on the second part 16 proximal the lightmodifier 24 for optical communication of the light therethrough. Thesource of medical treatment 12 is preferrably a source of high frequencyenergy, but could be a laser, hydro disector, aspiration or othermedical or surgical delivery system. A memory 25 with the source ofmedical treatment receives the information as the indication in the formof modified light energy from the optical couplings 17 and 18 best shownin FIG. 1. The memory 25 compares the light transmitted through theoptical couplings 17 and 18 modified thereby with information. Thememory 25 receives the information and controls the activation ordeactivation of the energy source 12. The optical couplings 17 and 18preferrably include a diffuse surface infrared reflector as thepreferred light modifier 24 on the first part 15 and non contact codedproximity detectors 26 as part of the light supply 19 on the second part16 responsive to the light returned from the diffuse surface infraredreflector 24 communicated as information indicative of the instrument 11identification for the identifying circuit 22.

A method of using the qualifying connection 10 for the instrument 11attached to source of high frequency energy 12 for electrosurgery andfor delivering surgical signals from the source of high frequency energy12 through the qualifying connection 10 to and from the instrument 11has first and second parts 15 and 16. The method has steps includingjuxtapositioning the first and second parts 15 and 16 across thequalifying connection 10 with mechanical attachments 20 and 21 andoptical couplings 17 and 18 therebetween. Conjugating the first andsecond parts 15 and 16 on the qualifying connection 10 with geometricmechanical attachments 20 and 21 and transmitting invisible opticalenergy across optical couplings 17 and 18 juxtaposed by first and secondparts 15 and 16 of the qualifying connection 10 for communicatinginstrument 11 identity with invisible light supplied from the source ofhigh frequency energy 12 are steps of the method. The method has thestep of modifying the invisible optical energy with geographicallydisposed proximate optical couplings 17 and 18 of the first and secondparts 15 and 16 when the mechanical attachments 20 and 21 engage so theoptical couplings 17 and 18 are proximate. Communicating the type ofinstrument 11 connected by a cable 27 between the first part and theinstrument 11, by passing a signal of the modified invisible opticalenergy through the qualifying connection 10 and to identifying circuit22 in the source of high frequency 12 is a method step. A step of themethod is assessing the modified invisible optical energy from theoptical couplings 17 and 18 with the identifying circuit 22 for use asverification for controlling the source of high frequency energy 12. Amethod step is enabling the flow of high frequency energy 12 from thesource of high frequency energy 12 through at least one of themechanical attachments 20 or 21, the cable 27 and to the instrument 11with switch 23 in the source of high frequency energy 12 responsive tocontrol from the identifying circuit 22. Carrying high frequency energythrough the mechanical attachments 20 and 21 from the source of highfrequency energy 12 to the instrument 11 and through cable 27 betweenthe first part 15 of the qualifying connection 10 and the instrument 11is a step.

The method has a step of conjugating male and female portions that formthe mechanical attachments 20 and 21 by physically extending themechanical attachments 20 and 21 between the first and second parts 15and 16 across the qualifying connection 10 during mating engagement. Themethod includes the step of communicating between the optical couplings17 and 18 by transmitting optical energy as signals from the second part16 as encoded in modified invisible optical energy by light modifier 24on the first part 15 sensed by detectors 26 on the second part 16positioned proximate by the mating engagement of the mechanicalattachments 20 and 21. The method has the step of modifying invisiblelight radiation in the infrared wavelengths by a diffuse surface as thelight modifier 24. The method includes the step of modifying theinvisible light radiation with a matrix 28 on the first part andinfrared emitters on the second part positioned proximate to the matrix28 for coding signals. The matrix 28 is preferrably a combination ofdiffuse reflectors and holes in coupling 17 of first part 15 as in FIG.2. The method has the step of receiving the coded signals beforeactivating or deactivating the source of high frequency energy 12 withswitch 23 coupled to memory 25 in the identifying circuit 22 wherein thememory 25 compares the coded signals to predetermined instrument 11identification therein. The method has the step of communicating throughoptical couplings 17 and 18 by non contact, coded proximity detectorsresponsive to diffuse surface invisible infrared optical energy forinstrument 11 identification.

The qualifying connection 10 for instrument 11 in a preferred embodimentattaches to source of high frequency energy 12 for electrosurgery.Surgical signals from the source of high frequency energy 12 aredelivered through qualifying connection 10 to and from instrument 11.First part 15 couples to instrument 11 and second part 16 is in thesource of high frequency energy 12. Mechanical attachments 20 and 21 onfirst and second parts 15 and 16 geometrically conjugate. The mechanicalattachments 20 and 21 extend across the qualifying connection 10 forjuxtapositioning first and second parts 15 and 16. Mechanicalattachments 21 on second part 16 connect to source of high frequencyenergy 12. Mechanical attachment 20 on first part 15 couples toinstrument 11 for delivery of high frequency energy 12 and therefore areelectrical conductors. Optical couplings 17 and 18 on first and secondparts 15 and 16 pass invisible optical energy thereacross to communicateinstrument 11 identity. Optical couplings 17 and 18 geographicallyorient proximate relative to the juxtaposed first and second parts 15and 16 for communicating when the mechanical attachments 20 and 21conjugate. Infrared light supply 19 in source of high frequency energy12, connects through optical couplings 17 and 18 in the transmissionacross the communicating optical couplings 17 and 18. Infrared lightmodifier 24 on optical coupling 17 is positioned proximal for coding ofthe transmitted infrared light communicated there across.

Cable 27 fitted between first part 15 and instrument 11 carries highfrequency energy from mechanical attachments 20 and 21 to instrument 11.Cable 27 allows movement of instrument 11 relative to source of highfrequency energy 12. Identifying circuit 22 in source of high frequencyenergy 12 connects to respond to infrared light optically coded byinfrared light modifier 24. Identifying circuit 22 verifies the type ofinstrument 11 connected by cable 27 through qualifying connection 10 tosource of high frequency 12 electrosurgical energy. Identifying circuit22 connects for signaling the verification to source of high frequencyenergy 12.

Switch 23 in source of high frequency energy 12 couples to identifyingcircuit 22 for responding to the signals of identifying circuit 22.Switch 23 connected within source of high frequency energy 12 forenabling and disabling the flow of high frequency energy 12 therefromand through at least one of mechanical attachments 20 and 21, cable 27and to the instrument 11.

One form qualifying connection 10 includes first part 15 thereofconnected to instrument 11 and second part 16 thereof carried in andconnected to source of medical treatment 12. A transmitter such as lightsupply 19 on source of medical treatment 12 delivers informationalenergy to first part 15 on instrument 11 and modifier 24 on first part15 is proximately positioned relative to transmitter 19. Modifier 24changes the energy from the transmitter 19. One or more receivers suchas detectors 26 on second part 16 are located for receipt of the changedenergy from modifier 24. Mechanical attachments 20 and 21 acrossqualifying connection 10 juxtaposition first and second parts 15 and 16thereof Mechanical attachments 20 and 21 having geometric conjugationsdeliver medical treatment through qualifying connection 10 from sourceof medical treatment 12 to instrument 11. Mechanical attachments 20 and21 position proximally and geographically first part 15 on instrument 11and second part 16 on source of medical treatment 12 when mechanicalattachments 20 and 21 conjugate so that first and second parts 15 and 16may communicate across qualifying connection 10 between first and secondparts 15 and 16 for transmitting and receiving information and modifiedenergy thereacross thus communicating the identity of instrument 11 toand medical treatment from source of medical treatment 12.

Identifying circuit 22 connects to second part 16 located in source ofmedical treatment 12 for receiving communicated information fromreceiver 26. Identifying circuit 22 responds to communicated informationfor differentiating the type of instrument 11 connected by mechanicalattachments 20 and 21 through qualifying connection 10 to source ofmedical treatment 12. Identifying circuit 22 generates a signal ofverification to source of medical treatment 12. Switch 23 in source ofmedical treatment 12 responds to the signaling of identifying circuit22. Switch 23 connects to identifying circuit 22 within source ofmedical treatment 12. Switch 23 connects within source of medicaltreatment 12 for controlling the passage of medical treatment fromsource of medical treatment 12 through at least one of the mechanicalattachments 20 or 21 and to instrument 11.

Switch 23 is connected to an energy provider such as an electrosurgicalgenerator in source of medical treatment 12. Switch 23 within identifiercircuit 22 communicates identification information to allow setting thenature of the energy conveyed in accord with instrument 11 identifiedand for differentiating instrument 11 attached through qualifyingconnection 10 from other unqualified instruments 11. Transmitter 19delivers light in the infrared wavelengths and the modifier 24 ispreferrably a surface on first part 15 positioned proximal totransmitter 19 on second part 16. The surface is configured to modifythe delivered light by absorption, diffraction, reflection or acombination thereof. Mechanical attachments 20 and 21 preferrableinclude one or more electrical conductors and the energy providerincludes the electrosurgical generator for delivery of modes of radiofrequency electrosurgery across the mechanical attachments 20 and 21.Mechanical attachments 20 and 21 include alternatively one or more waveguides when the energy provider is a laser for delivery of light energythrough mechanical attachments 20 and 21. Mechanical attachments 20 and21 include alternatively one or more fluid passages when the energyprovider is a fluid movement apparatus for delivery of suction orirrigation through the mechanical attachments 20 and 21. Mechanicalattachments 20 and 21 include alternatively one or more energy couplingswhen the energy provider is a microwave generator for delivery ofmicrowaves through the mechanical attachments 20 and 21. The mechanicalattachment 20 and 21 include alternatively male and female portions.

Modifier 24 is located in first part 15 sandwiched between thetransmitter 19 and receiver 26 on second part 16. The surface includesmatrix 28 for modifying the light in the infrared wavelengths. Thereceivers 26 may include fiber optics extending between second part 16and the source of medical treatment 12, detectors located in source ofmedical treatment 12 connected to the fiber optics so that the spacerequired for the detectors is uninhibited by second part 16. Thereceivers may include fiber optics extending between second part 16 andsource of medical treatment 12. The fiber optics have several groups ofmultiple redundant fibers for simultaneously passage of the informationfrom modifier 24 in the form of modified light. A plurality of cellssuch as optical coupling are within source of medical treatment 12 soeach group of the multiple redundant fibers may extend to a particularcell and deliver thereto modified light as coded identity information.

The preferred embodiment of the smart recognition system has a smartqualifying connector 10 bipolar jack, smart sense processor, anilluminating display indicator that validates instrument 11 recognition,and a medical instrument. There is a mating plug and surgical instrument11, attached by a connective cable. The medical instrument plug mayestablish an Nth bit code identity. The smart connector bipolar jack ispreferably located on the front panel of the electrosurgical generator.The bipolar jack is preferably the power receptacle through which theelectrosurgical generator outputs the Rf energy to an attached medicalinstrument. Rf energy output can only occur after the smart recognitionidentity of the medical instrument has been correctly established.Physical configuration of the connector is preferably asymmetric toallow a unidirectional attachment of the medical instrument. Thisconditional mating, automatically facilitates the proper orientation ofthe medical instrument plug, so that the infrared proximity detectorscan properly decode the medical instrument identity. The bipolar jack ismost preferably manufactured from a machined piece of black polymer.This creates a shrouded, dark adaptive, light environment for theinfrared sensory components, to recover the maximum signal. The blackpolymer absorbs the unwanted infrared light, if any, in the operatingroom and is opaque to visible light preventing reflection, transmissionand pickup by the smart sense components.

A rectangular cutout, present in the bipolar jack, may allow theinfrared components, mounted on the smart sense processor a viewingaperture window for inspection of the mated medical instrument plug. Theidentification and verification of compatibility for electrosurgical useresults. The smart sense processor mounted on top of the bipolar jackperforms the function of coded proximity detection using diffuse surfaceinfrared reflective coupling to the attached medical instrument plug. AnNth bit signal code unique to the instrument 11 attached is recovered.Upon retrieving the medical instrument identity, the information ishardware and software processed to discriminate if the identity code iscorrect. Discrimination is made to determine if the attached instrument11 should be supplied Rf energy from the electrosurgical generator.Considering a valid recognition, Rf energy is delivered to a tissue sitefor surgical use. The smart sensing performs hardware code processing.The smart processor either locally controls the activation of the Rfenergy of the generator or transmits the code information to amicrocontroller wherein a comparative decision is made relative to theinstrument 11 identity.

A display indicator provides visual illumination of a positive bit coderecognition, that the correct medical instrument 11 is attached to theelectrosurgical generator. The display is located on the front panel ofthe electrosurgical generator. Display illumination continues as long asthe identity of the attached medical instrument is recognized. Removalof the medical instrument plug deactivates the display indicator andprevents any further keyed activation of Rf energy, from the generatoroutput.

The medical instrument has a mating connection and instrument with aconnective cable. The plug is preferably an overmolded assembly with pincontacts that mate with a bipolar jack receptacle on the generator fortransferring the Rf energy. A matrix of holes and plugs is establishedbetween the molded plug and receptacle. The holes and plugs permitinfrared light therethrough or reflected to establish the Nth bitidentity code unique to the medical instrument. Exposure of the plug toliquids should not ordinarily alter the identity code of the instrument11. Fluids entering this matrix of holes will pass by gravity due to thevertical orientation of the preferred embodiment of the holes. Fluidspresent on the plug surface, in the area occupied by the plug insert,should not alter the retrieval process of the identity code, due to theproximity detection by infrared sensors. The unfocused infrared opticalsensor responds to the presence of objects with irregular surfaces.Diffraction of light energy due to surface granularity ordiscontinuities should not contribute significantly to the loss ofsignal recovered by the infrared sensor. The proximity of the infraredsensor does not obviate the recovery of code information due to adjacentbit cell sites. A rapid fall off the diffractive light energy preventsthe corruption of the unique identity code. The accuracy and integrityof the smart recognition system for electrosurgery are preserved.

The medical instrument plug inserts are used to establish the Nth bitcode identity for the instrument 11 and are located in the overmoldedplug. These plug inserts are constructed of compatible materials to theplug and are fitted and arranged consistent with the identity codeselected. The arrangement permits retrieval by the proximity detectionmethod described.

While a particular preferred embodiment has been illustrated anddescribed, the scope of protection sought in the claims that followcovers any connection that uses non environmental radiation across anoptical coupling to verify or identify the instrument 11 connectedbefore energy is permitted to pass through the connection from the highfrequency generator to the instrument 11.

In addition to the preferred embodiment, which uses non contact, codedproximity identity detection with diffuse surface reflection opticalcoupling, the scope of claims delineated herein covers enhancements tooptical couplings and coding methods with alternate light modifiers andlight conduits. This includes as example alternate light modificationtechnology methods using light modulation or matrix encoding methods togenerate unique coding algorithms. The use of fiber optics as a lightconduit may enhance code identity detection methods with multipleredundant fibers used in specific cell structure orientations soinformation transmitted provides a unique light discriminator to thediffuse reflection light in the infrared wavelengths. Alternateconfigurations which strategically reposition the transmitters,receivers and light modifiers to further enhance the coded proximitydetection means are in the claims for optimal optical coupling.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system including an instrument, a source ofhigh frequency energy and a qualifying connection between the source ofmedical treatment for passage of treatment energy from the source ofmedical treatment through the qualifying connection to the instrumentand to a patient, the qualifying connection for selectively permittingpassage of information from the instrument to the source of medicaltreatment, the system comprising:an instrument having a distal end fortreatment of the patient and a proximal end for manipulation by asurgeon, the instrument connected to the qualifying connection; a sourceof medical treatment for providing energy delivery to the instrument,the source of medical treatment attached to the qualifying connection; afirst part of the qualifying connection connected to the instrument; asecond part of the qualifying connection carried on and connected to thesource of medical treatment; optical couplings on the qualifyingconnection and on the first and second parts for passing optical energycommunicating the information in the form of the identity of theinstrument to the source of medical treatment; a light supply in thesource of medical treatment, the light supply connected to thequalifying connection for transmitting across the communicating opticalcouplings, the light supply within a predetermined wavelength;mechanical attachments across the qualifying connection forjuxtapositioning the first and second parts thereof, the mechanicalattachments having geometric mechanical conjugations for deliveringmedical treatment through the qualifying connection from the source ofmedical treatment to the instrument, the mechanical attachments forpositioning geographically the optical couplings in proximity tocommunicate between the first part of the instrument and the second parton the source of medical treatment when the mechanical attachmentsconjugate so the optical couplings may communicate the information as anindication of the identity of the instrument connected to the source ofmedical treatment; an identifying circuit in the source of medicaltreatment, the identifying circuit connected to the second part andresponsive to the information as the indication of light opticallycommunicated through the optical couplings thereby differentiating thetype of instrument connected by the mechanical attachments through thequalifying connection to the source of medical treatment, theidentifying circuit for signaling verification to the source of medicaltreatment, and a switch connected to the identifying circuit in thesource of medical treatment, the switch responsive to the signaling ofthe identifying circuit, the switch further connected within the sourceof medical treatment for enabling the passage of medical treatment fromthe source of medical treatment through at least one of the mechanicalattachments and to the instrument.
 2. The qualifying connection of claim1 wherein conjugating male and female portions form the mechanicalattachments, the male and female portions physically extend between thefirst and second parts across the qualifying connection for matingengagement.
 3. The qualifying connection of claim 1 wherein the opticalcouplings positioned on the first and second parts are aligned inproximate relation for communication therebetween upon the matingengagement of the mechanical attachments, the optical coupling on thefirst part including a light modifier.
 4. The qualifying connection ofclaim 3 wherein the light modifier includes a diffuse surface, acoating, a matrix of holes or a preselected light responsive material tomodify the radiation passing through the light modifier for thereafterreceipt by the optical coupling on the second part for signaling thesource of medical treatment.
 5. The qualifying connection of claim 2wherein the mechanical attachments include one or more male portions onthe first part for conjugation.
 6. The qualifying connection of claim 2wherein the mechanical attachments include one or more female portionson the second part for conjugation.
 7. The qualifying connection ofclaim 4 wherein the first part optical couplings include the lightmodifier indicative of the type of instrument connected to the firstpart.
 8. The qualifying connection of claim 7 wherein infraredtransmitters are positioned on the second part proximal the lightmodifier for optical communication of the light therethrough.
 9. Thequalifying connection of claim 8 wherein the source of medical treatmentis a source of high frequency energy, the identifying circuit includinga memory to receive the information as the indication in the form ofmodified light energy from the optical couplings, the memory forcomparing the light transmitted through the optical couplings andmodified thereby with information, the memory for receiving theinformation and controlling the activation or deactivation the source ofhigh frequency energy.
 10. The qualifying connection of claim 1 whereinthe optical couplings include a diffuse surface infrared reflector onthe first part and non contact coded proximity detectors on the secondpart responsive to the light returned from the diffuse surface infraredreflector communicated as information indicative of the instrumentidentification for the identifying circuit.
 11. A system including asource of high frequency energy and qualifying connection for aninstrument attached to the source of high frequency energy forelectrosurgery and surgical signals from the source of high frequencyenergy delivered through the qualifying connection to and from theinstrument, the qualifying connection having a first part connectable tothe instrument and a second part connected to the source of highfrequency energy, the qualifying connection comprising;optical couplingson the qualifying connection for transmitting invisible optical energythereacross for communicating instrument identity to the source of highfrequency energy, the optical couplings positioned on the first andsecond parts in proximate relation for communication thereacross; alight modifier on the first part of the optical coupling, the lightmodifier positioned proximally to the second part for modification ofradiation in the infrared wavelengths; transmitters of infraredwavelengths encoded signals and non contact coded proximity detectors asthe optical couplings positioned on the second part, the non contactcoded proximity detectors responsive to infrared modification from thelight modifier for providing information indicative of instrumentidentification; an invisible light supply in the source of highfrequency energy for delivery from the transmitters and across thecommunicating optical couplings of the infrared wavelength encodedsignal for modification by the light modifier to communicate codedsignals thereacross; mechanical attachments including conjugating maleand female portions physically extending between the first and secondparts across the qualifying connection for mating engagement, themechanical attachments across the qualifying connection forjuxtapositioning the first and second parts, the mechanical attachmentsgeometrically conjugating thereby geographically positioning the opticalcouplings proximate for communicating, the mechanical attachmentsincluding one or more conductors for delivery of high frequency energyfrom the source of high frequency to the instrument; a cable extendingfrom the first part of the qualifying connection for connecting thequalifying connection and the instrument, the cable including electricalconductors for carrying high frequency energy passing through the firstpart of the qualifying connection from the source of high frequencyenergy to the cable and the instrument; an identifying circuit in thesource of high frequency energy, the identifying circuit coupled to thesecond part, the identifying circuit responsive to invisible lightoptically communicated across the optical couplings for verifying thetype of instrument connected by the cable, through the qualifyingconnection to the source of high frequency energy, the identifyingcircuit for signaling the verification to the source of high frequencyenergy; a memory coupled within the identifying circuit, the memory forreceiving and comparing verification signals to predetermined instrumentidentification therewithin, and a switch in the source of high frequencyenergy and connected to the memory, the switch connected within thesource of high frequency energy for controlling activation anddeactivation of the flow of high frequency energy therefrom through atleast one of the mechanical attachments, the cable and to theinstrument, the switch responsive to the signals of the identifyingcircuit thereby activating or deactivating the source of high frequencyenergy.
 12. A system including a source of high frequency energy and aqualifying connection for an instrument attached to the source of highfrequency energy for electrosurgery and surgical signals from the sourceof high frequency energy delivered through the qualifying connection toand from the instrument, the connection having a first part connectableto the instrument and a second part on the source of high frequencyenergy, the qualifying connection comprising:mechanical attachments onthe first and second parts for geometrically conjugating, the mechanicalattachments extending across the qualifying connection forjuxtapositioning the first and second parts of thereof, the mechanicalattachments on the second part connected to the source of high frequencyenergy, the mechanical attachments on the first part coupled to theinstrument for delivery of high frequency energy; optical couplings onthe first and second parts for passing invisible optical energythereacross to communicate instrument identity, the optical couplingsgeographically oriented proximate relative to the juxtaposed first andsecond parts for communicating when the mechanical attachmentsconjugate; an infrared light supply in the source of high frequencyenergy, the infrared light supply connected to the optical couplings inthe second part for transmission across the communicating opticalcouplings; an infrared light modifier on the optical couplings on thefirst part, the infrared light modifier positioned proximal for codingof the transmitted infrared light communicated across the opticalcouplings; a cable extending from the first part for connecting thequalifying connection and the instrument, the cable for carrying highfrequency energy from the mechanical attachments to the instrument, thecable for allowing movement of the instrument relative to the source ofhigh frequency energy; an identifying circuit in the source of highfrequency energy second part and connected to respond to infrared lightoptically coded by the infrared light modifier, the identifying circuitfor verifying the type of instrument connected by the cable through thequalifying connection to the source of high frequency electrosurgicalenergy, the identifying circuit connected for signaling the verificationto the source of high frequency energy, and a switch in the source ofhigh frequency energy coupled to the identifying circuit for respondingto the signals of the identifying circuit, the switch connected withinthe source of high frequency energy for enabling and disabling the flowof high frequency energy from the source of high frequency energythrough at least one of the mechanical attachments, the cable and to theinstrument.
 13. A system including a source of medical treatment and aqualifying connection between an instrument and the source of medicaltreatment, the qualifying connection for passage of treatment from thesource of medical treatment through the qualifying connection to theinstrument, the qualifying connection for selectively permitting passageof information from the instrument to the source of medical treatment,the qualifying connection comprising:a first part of the qualifyingconnection connectable to the instrument; a second part of thequalifying connection carried on and connected to the source of medicaltreatment; a transmitter on the source of medical treatment second partfor delivery of informational energy to the first part on theinstrument; a modifier on the first part proximately positioned relativeto the transmitter, the modifier able to change the energy from thetransmitter; one or more receivers on the second part located forreceipt of the changed energy from the modifier; mechanical attachmentsacross the qualifying connection for juxtapositioning the first andsecond parts thereof, the mechanical attachments having geometricconjugations for delivering medical treatment through the qualifyingconnection from the source of medical treatment to the instrument, themechanical attachments for positioning proximally and geographically thefirst part on the instrument and the second part on the source ofmedical treatment when the mechanical attachments conjugate so that thefirst and second parts may communicate across the qualifying connectionbetween the first and second parts for transmitting and receivinginformation and changed energy thereacross thus communicating theidentity of the instrument to and medical treatment from the source ofmedical treatment; an identifying circuit connected to the second partthus located in the source of medical treatment for receivingcommunicated information from the receiver, the identifying circuitresponsive to communicated information for differentiating the type ofinstrument connected by the mechanical attachments through thequalifying connection to the source of medical treatment, theidentifying circuit for generating a signal of verification to thesource of medical treatment, and a switch in the source of medicaltreatment responsive to the signaling of the identifying circuit, theswitch connected to the identifying circuit within the source of medicaltreatment, the switch connected within the source of medical treatmentfor controlling the passage of medical treatment from the source ofmedical treatment through at least one of the mechanical attachments andto the instrument.
 14. The qualifying connection of claim 13 wherein theswitch in the source of medical treatment is connected to an energyprovider in the source of medical treatment responsive to the automaticactivation of the source of high frequency energy by the identifiercircuit for setting the nature of the energy conveyed in accord with theinstrument identified and for differentiating the instrument attachedthrough the qualifying connection from other unqualified instruments.15. The qualifying connection of claim 14 wherein the transmitterdelivers light in the infrared wavelengths and the modifier is a surfaceon the first part positioned proximal the transmitter on the secondpart, the surface configured to modify the delivered light byabsorption, diffraction, reflection or a combination thereof.
 16. Thequalifying connection of claim 15 wherein the mechanical attachmentsinclude one or more electrical conductors and the energy providerincludes an electrosurgical generator for delivery of modes of radiofrequency electrosurgery across the mechanical attachments.
 17. Thequalifying connection of claim 15 wherein the mechanical attachmentsinclude one or more wave guides and the energy provider is a laser fordelivery of light energy through the mechanical attachments.
 18. Thequalifying connection of claim 15 wherein the mechanical attachmentsinclude one or more fluid passages and the energy provider is a fluidmovement apparatus for delivery of suction or irrigation through themechanical attachments.
 19. The qualifying connection of claim 15wherein the mechanical attachments include one or more energy couplingsand the energy provider is a microwave generator for delivery ofmicrowaves through the mechanical attachments.
 20. The qualifyingconnection of claim 15 wherein the mechanical attachment include maleand female portions.
 21. The qualifying connection of claim 15 whereinthe modifier is located in the first part sandwiched between thetransmitter and receiver on the second part.
 22. The qualifyingconnection of claim 15 wherein the surface includes a matrix formodifying the light in the infrared wavelengths.
 23. The qualifyingconnection of claim 13 wherein the receivers include fiber opticsextending between the second part and the source of medical treatment,and detectors located in the source of medical treatment are connectedto the fiber optics so that the space required for the detectors isuninhibited by the second part.
 24. The qualifying connection of claim13 wherein the receivers include fiber optics extending between thesecond part and the source of medical treatment, the fiber optics haveseveral groups of multiple redundant fibers for simultaneously passageof the information from the modifier in the form of modified light, aplurality of cells within the source of medical treatment so each groupof the multiple redundant fibers may extend to a particular cell anddeliver thereto modified light as coded identity information.
 25. Anon-contact recognition system for identifying a connection between asurgical instrument and a generator for applying energy to the surgicalinstrument, the system comprising:a first connection part connected tothe surgical instrument; a second connection part connected to thegenerator; the first connection part including a first optical coupling,the first optical coupling including a light modifier in the form of adiffuse surface, the diffuse surface including a light responsive mediumhaving an identification code indicative of the surgical instrument, thefirst connection part insertable into the second connection part; thesecond connection part including a light supply and a light receptor,the light supply transmitting a non-focused light beam to the diff-usesurface of the first connection part and the diffuse surface modifyingthe light received from the second part, the light receptor receivingthe non-focused light beam modified by the diffuse surface; and anidentifying circuit in the generator responsive to the modified lightcommunicating through the first and second connection parts to identifythe surgical instrument connected to the generator.
 26. The systemaccording to claim 25, wherein the light responsive medium includes acoating for modifying the light energy.
 27. The system according toclaim 25, wherein the light responsive medium includes a matrix of holesfor modifying the light energy.
 28. The system according to claim 25,wherein the light supply includes a plurality of infrared transmittersand the light modifier changes the energy transmitted from thetransmitters.
 29. The system according to claim 25, wherein the lightincludes a plurality of non-contact detectors.
 30. The system accordingto claim 29, further comprising a memory in the generator for receivingand processing the modified light reflected by the diffuse surfacecontrolling the activation and deactivation of the generator.
 31. Thesystem according to claim 30, wherein the memory compares the codedsignals of the diffuse surface to a predetermined instrumentidentification therein.
 32. The system according to claim 25, whereinthe generator provides high frequency energy to the surgical instrument.33. The system according to claim 25, wherein the first connection partfurther includes a male mechanical attachment for reception in a femaleportion on the second connection part to position the first opticalcoupling of the first connection part and a second optical coupling ofthe second connection part in proximity.
 34. The system according toclaim 33, further comprising a switch electrically connected to theidentifying circuit in the generator, the switch enabling the passage ofenergy from the generator through the mechanical attachment and to thesurgical instrument.
 35. The system according to claim 25, wherein theoptical energy is invisible infrared optical energy.
 36. The systemaccording to claim 35, wherein the identifying circuit responds toinfrared light optically coded by the infrared light modifier.
 37. Thesystem according to claim 36, wherein the second connection partincludes a plurality of transmitters and the light modifier changes thelight energy from the transmitters.
 38. The system according to claim34, wherein the switch allows setting the nature of the energy conveyedto the surgical instrument.
 39. The system according to claim 25,further comprising a plurality of receivers on the second connectionpart and the light supply includes a plurality of transmitters, thelight modifier being located proximate the transmitters and receiver.40. The system according to claim 39, wherein the receivers include aplurality of optical fibers.
 41. A system according to claim 25, furthercomprising a display to provide a visual indication that the correctinstrument is attached to the generator.
 42. The system according toclaim 25, wherein the identification code of the first connection parthas Nth bit code identification unique to the type of surgicalinstrument.
 43. The system according to claim 42, wherein upon receivingthe surgical instrument identity the information is hardware andsoftware processed to determine if the identity code is correct andwhether the electrosurgical energy should be supplied.
 44. The systemaccording to claim 43, wherein the first connection portion is in theform of a plug and Nth bit code identity is located on the plug.
 45. Amethod of identifying a surgical instrument for determination ofapplication of energy comprising:providing a first connection parthaving a light modifier in the form of a diffuse surface correspondingto a predetermined code particular to the type of instrument; providinga generator having a second connection part having a plurality oftransmitters for transmitting an unfocused beam of light to the diff-usesurface; inserting the first connection part into the second connectionpart so the diffuse surface and the transmitters are in proximity;transmitting optical energy from the transmitters of the second part tothe diff-use surface of the first part; processing the modified light inthe generator to determine the type of surgical instrument connected tothe generator; and controlling the activation and deactivation of thegenerator in response to the determination of the type of surgicalinstrument.
 46. A system according to claim 45, further comprising thestep of providing a visual indication that the correct instrument isattached to the generator.
 47. A system according to claim 45, whereinthe step of transmitting optical energy includes transmitting opticalenergy to a coating on the diffuse surface.
 48. A system according toclaim 45, wherein the step of transmitting optical energy includestransmitting optical energy to a matrix of holes.